Retail Checkout

​This January, RILA hosted our annual Retail CEO Forum – an event designed just for America's leading retail executives. The forum was an opportunity for CEOs to network, exchange ideas, and learn alongside their industry peers. This year's event was a huge success. Below are a few quick highlights to showcase the exciting initiatives our retail leaders are up to and how the industry is evolving.

RILA Board of Directors Meeting

Prior to the official kickoff of the CEO Forum, our Board of Directors gathered for their bi-annual meeting. The Board members discussed the industry's achievements over the last year and shared excitement over the future of the industry. They're enthusiastic about working together to solve for innovation challenges and strengthen the industry's advocacy voice at all levels and in all branches of government. In addition, the group elected four new members and selected a new Chairman, Target CEO Brian Cornell.

Brian is excited about his new role and has a strong vision for what he hopes to accomplish during the next two years, specifically:

These sessions sparked engaging discussions and provided the group with ideas to consider as they head back to lead their companies.

(R)Tech Retail CEO Award Winners

Prior to the event, RILA's Board of Directors, CEOs, and heads of innovation selected, from a pool of finalists, three startups that will influence the future of retail. The (R)Tech Retail CEO Awards winners showcased their innovations the group at the Forum. More details, including video demonstrations, on the winners – IamBot, Multifold, and Persado – can be found here.

Mitt Romney

Governor Mitt Romney sat for an interview with Fox New Sunday's Chris Wallace to talk about politics, leadership and a range of other issues.

Retail's 2018 Policy Priorities

Following a year of great success for the retail industry, we set aside time to reflect on some of our great advocacy wins from 2017. These successes were a direct result of our industry leaders collaborating to tackle challenges and advocate for the industry together.

In addition, RILA released our 2018 Public Policy Agenda, which identifies the key issue areas that are vital to help retailers move America forward. More details on our priorities for the year can be found here.

Retail Analysts

The agenda also included a panel of three retail analysts moderated by Target CEO and RILA Chairman Brian Cornell. They discuss their views of the state of the retail industry, the critical metrics driving valuations and how both will change as the industry continues to evolve and innovate.

General Stan McChrystal

The event concluded with a presentation from Retired Four Star General Stan McChrystal, who talked about the enormous challenges he faced while head of U.S. and international forces in Afghanistan. He explained how the lessons that he learned in Afghanistan can be applied to those who lead large businesses.

The 2019 Retail CEO Forum will be held January 20-22 in Amelia Island, Florida. Stay tuned for more information!